About the position
The Planet Formation Group in Lund University's Division of Astrophysics is looking for a PhD student in theoretical astrophysics to model how planets form across the whole galaxy.
You will study how planets form at different times and in different parts of the Milky Way, and calculate how some planetesimals, the small bodies that planets are built from, are thrown out of their systems to drift between the stars. The aim is to show where interstellar comets come from.
What you will do
- Carry out the research and write a doctoral thesis.
- Publish in leading scientific journals and present your results at national and international conferences.
- Take doctoral courses and seminars, and spend up to 20% of your time teaching or on department work.
Who can apply
- A master's degree, or at least 240 credits of university study including 60 at master's level, or equivalent knowledge gained in Sweden or abroad.
- Studies in which physics, mathematics or a related engineering subject made up a large part: 60 credits of basic physics plus at least 60 credits relevant to astronomy, with at least 60 of these 120 at master's level. Applicants from neighbouring subjects may also be considered.
- Very good spoken and written English.
- An advantage: experience with models of planet or galaxy formation, strong numerical skills, and programming in languages such as Python or Fortran.
What is offered
- Full-time, fixed-term employment as a doctoral student: four years of study, extended to match any teaching or department work.
- A monthly salary as a university employee.
- Start date by agreement.
How to apply
- Apply in English through the university's online application system, linked below.
- Send a CV and a cover letter explaining why you want this PhD and how the project fits your interests and studies.
- Add copies of your degree certificates and transcripts showing you meet the entry requirements.
- Add anything else you want considered, such as reference contacts or recommendation letters.